Some conservatives are still looking for an alternative to Rounds, whom they regard as insufficiently conservative. But Rhoden, who comes from the western part of the state and has spent more than a decade in the Legislature, isn’t seen as a “movement conservative.” And while Rhoden served as state Senate majority whip, he isn’t regarded as Rounds’ political equal.

The likely Democratic nominee, Rick Weiland, so far has not caught fire and appears to be a clear underdog in the 2014 contest.